Journal Articles

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Tracking progress toward livestock sector transformation in Tanzania using national and international datasets
(Kadigi Discover Animals, 2026-08-26) Kadigi, Ibrahim L.
Livestock plays a central role in Tanzania’s rural economy, yet productivity remains constrained by low-input production systems, limited genetic improvement, suboptimal management practices, and weak market integration. This study assesses the extent and pace of livestock-sector transformation using a multi-source approach that integrates FAOSTAT time-series data, the National Sample Census of Agriculture (NSCA), and multi-wave household data from the National Panel Survey (NPS). Descriptive statistics and trend analysis were employed to evaluate changes in livestock productivity, adoption of improved breeds, management practices (vaccination coverage and supplementary feeding), and commercialization, as measured by household participation in purchasing and selling large and small ruminants. Results indicate measurable progress toward livestock transformation, particularly within the cattle subsector. Meat, milk, and hides productivity improved steadily over the study period, accompanied by substantial increases in improved beef and dairy cattle populations. Adoption of improved beef cattle increased more than fourteenfold, while improved dairy cattle populations more than doubled between 2002 and 2020. Management practices also improved, with vaccination coverage among large ruminants increasing from 43.6% to 64.8% and the proportion of farmers purchasing supplementary fodder rising from 11.0% to 18.5% across survey waves. Commercialization likewise strengthened, reflected by increasing proportions of households purchasing and selling cattle and small ruminants, although market participation remained relatively low overall. In contrast, transformation among small ruminants was slower, characterized by fluctuating improved goat populations, lower vaccination uptake, limited supplementary feeding, and weaker commercialization. Overall, the findings indicate that Tanzania’s livestock sector is making measurable progress toward transformation, although advances remain uneven across species and production systems. Policy efforts should prioritize inclusive genetic improvement, strengthened feed and animal health systems, and improved livestock market development to accelerate sustainable transformation
Mathematical modelling of the effects of public health educational campaigns on the transmission dynamics of Taenia solium Taeniasis
(Elsevier Ltd, 2026-07-28) Rwabonaa,Gideon Eustace; Degootc,Abdoelneser; Mirau,Silas
Taenia solium Taeniasis is a zoonotic intestinal infection that poses a significant threat to public health and imposes a substantial economic burden on developing regions, particularly in Sub Saharan Africa. This study formulates and rigorously analyses a deterministic mathematical model, comprised of a system of non-linear ordinary differential equations, to investigate the transmission dynamics of the parasite under the influence of public health education campaigns. Using the next-generation matrix method, we derive the effective reproduction number, 𝑒𝑑, as the fundamental threshold for disease persistence. Stability analysis demonstrates that the disease-free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable when 𝑒𝑑 < 1, ensuring disease eradication, whereas the infection persists and reaches a stable endemic equilibrium when 𝑒𝑑 > 1. Numerical simulations are provided to validate the analytical findings and to explore the parameter space associated with behavioural modification. The results indicate that public health education is a highly effective control measure, capable of significantly reducing prevalence and potentially eliminating T. solium Taeniasis in endemic settings.
Modeling the role of fertilizers and improved seeds on rice productivity in Tanzania using a stochastic simulation approach
(PLOS One, 2026-08-26) Kadigi, Ibrahim L; Lazaro Kagata,; Sieber, Ibrahim L
Modeling the role of fertilizers and improved seeds on rice productivity in Tanzania using a stochastic simulation approach. Climate change poses a significant threat to food production in Tanzania, particularly for smallholder farmers who rely on rain-fed agriculture. This study examines the role of improved seeds and fertilizers as climate adaptation strategies to boost rice pro-ductivity and food security. Using data from the 2019/20 National Sample Census of Agriculture (NSCA), the study analyzed 6,025 rice farms from Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar. A Stochastic Simulation model was used to account for yield variability anduncertainty. Farms were classified by seed type (local or improved) and fertilizer use (organic, inorganic, or none). Findings show that using improved seeds with inorganic fertilizers significantly enhances productivity, with a 16% chance of achieving yieldsabove 4.5 t/ha. This combination also reduced the risk of falling below food securitythresholds. In contrast, farms using local seeds, even with fertilizers, had only a 10%chance of reaching that yield level. The impact was more notable in Mainland Tan-zania (25%) than in Zanzibar (6%). While organic fertilizers improve soil health, they offer limited short-term yield gains. The study concludes that promoting access to improved seeds and inorganic fertilizers is crucial for enhancing rice productivity and achieving the SDG 2 goal of Zero Hunger in Tanzania.
Untargeted GC–Orbitrap-HRMS fingerprinting reveals tree age-dependent changes in flavor-related metabolites of Musang King durian
(SCI, 2026-04-20) Sospeter, Eliwanzita; Ding, Phebe
Tree age is an important preharvest factor that can influence the chemical composition and flavor attributes of fruit, yet its effect on Musang King durian (MKD) quality remains poorly understood. In this study, an untargeted metabolomicsapproach using gas chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry (GC–Orbitrap-HRMS) was employed to comprehen-sively profile both volatile and non-volatile metabolites in MKD fruits harvested from young (5–9 years), middle-aged (10–15 years), and old (>16 years) trees. Multivariate analysis revealed age-dependent flavor metabolite differentiation, with principal component analysis showing distinct clustering among tree age groups, and confirmed by partial least squares discriminant analysis. Key discrim-inant metabolites included palatinose, ⊍-L-galactofuranoside, levoglucosan, L-(+)-rhamnopyranose, pyroglutamic acid, galac-taric acid, 8-methylnonanoic acid, d-gluconic acid, s-isopentyl propanethioate, propane-1-thiol, and propyl-1-(propylthio)ethyl disulfide. Integrative analysis further showed that fruits from old trees contained the highest total sugars, middle-aged treeshad the highest total organic acids, fatty acids, and amino acids, while young trees produced fruits rich in volatiles such sulfurcompounds, esters, aldehydes, and alcohols. These findings highlight that tree age influences the metabolite composition of MKD fruits. These metabolic dif-ferences demonstrate the potential of metabolite fingerprinting for distinguishing MKD fruits from different tree ages and sup-porting strategies for quality authentication. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry.
Improved maize seeds and farm profitability in Tanzania: Evidence from the National Sample Census of Agriculture 2019/20
(CABI, 2026-08-18)
Background: Maize plays a critical role in ensuring food security and supporting rural livelihoods in Tanzania. However, smallholder maize farmers continue to face persistent profitability challenges driven by low productivity, high input costs, and market inefficiencies. Although the government has prioritized promoting improved seed varieties across various agricultural development initiatives, evidence of their actual economic benefits in smallholder farming conditions remains limited. Understanding how different seed types affect farm profitability across agroecological zones is essential for informing sustainable agricultural policy and investment decisions. Methods: This study used a non-parametric stochastic simulation approach with nationally representative data from the 2019/20 National Sample Census of Agriculture (NSCA). The analysis estimated income distributions for three seed types (local, improved, and recycled) while accounting for yield variability, maize prices, and production costs. Profitability was assessed using two income thresholds: a minimum threshold of TZS 0.6 million/ha and an optimal benchmark of TZS 1.2 million/ha. Simulations were disaggregated by agroecological zone to capture spatial differences in cost structures, productivity, and market dynamics. Results: The findings indicate that improved seeds modestly increase the probability of achieving profitable outcomes but, on their own, are insufficient to lift most farmers above the optimal income threshold. Nationally, 64% of improved seed users earned below the minimum profitability level, compared with 67% of local seed users and 77% of recycled seed users. Only 14% of improved seed users exceeded the profitability benchmark. Regional variations were substantial: the Lake and Southern Zones recorded relatively better profitability due to lower input costs and favorable maize prices, while the Eastern and Western Zones remained largely unprofitable across all seed categories. Conclusion: Although improved seeds are essential for enhancing maize productivity, they do not guarantee profitability in the absence of complementary inputs and supportive market conditions. Multiple interacting factors, including production costs, yield variability, and market access, shape profit outcomes. The study recommends integrated, zone-specific interventions, including bundled input support, targeted subsidies, and investment in rural infrastructure, to improve farm-level returns. These insights contribute to SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), and SDG 12(Responsible Consumption and Production) by promoting more resilient and inclusive agricultural systems in Tanzania.
Socioeconomic importance, utilisation patterns and climate resilience potential of Mikoche (Hyphaene spp.) in Pangani District, Tanga, Tanzania
(Elsevier, 2026-06-27) Fweja, Leonard; Ahmed, Amina
This study examines the potential of the Mikoche tree (Hyphaene spp.), an indigenous palm species found in Pangani District, Tanzania, as a critical natural resource that can contribute to both ecological and socio- economic resilience amid changing environmental conditions. The study employed a mixed-methods approach involving household surveys, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and participatory rural appraisal techniques to assess the distribution, utilisation patterns, value addition opportunities, and challenges associated with Mikoche. Data were collected from Kimang’a and Madanga wards, where the species is commonly found. The findings indicate that local communities primarily use Mikoche for traditional construction materials, handicrafts, fencing and occasional consumption of its fruit. However, its potential for producing flour, cooking oil, and other value added products remains largely unexplored. The study further reveals significant differences in the utilisation and economic benefits derived from Mikoche between Kimang’a and Madanga wards, despite their similar ecological settings. Key barriers to wider utilisation include limited awareness of value-addition opportunities, inadequate processing technologies, poor market access, and a lack of supportive policies and institutional frameworks. The findings demonstrate that Mikoche has considerable potential to contribute to food security, income generation, and climate-change adaptation in coastal Tanzania. To realise this potential, tar- geted interventions are needed, including community capacity building, investment in processing infrastructure, market development, and policy support for sustainable resource management.
Nourishing the peripheries: examining weekly food markets and access to nutritious foods in rapidly growing urban settings – insights from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
(Elsevier, 2025) Kissoly, Luitfred; Ngassa,Claudio; Normana, Fatma; Rutatora, Sabrina; Aluko, Angela
Rapid urbanization and population growth in Sub-Saharan African cities exacerbate challenges in the availability and accessibility of nutritious foods for urban households, particularly in the underserved peripheries of fast-expanding urban areas. Although alternative food retail solutions, such as weekly food markets (WFMs), have emerged to address these issues, their contribution to urban food systems and to food access in rapidly expanding peripheries remains insufficiently examined. This paper examines the role of WFMs in providing nutritious foods, using the case of peripheral wards in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Data from 506 buyers and 381 vendors across 31 WFMs in five municipalities are analyzed through spatial, statistical, and qualitative methods. Results reveal adequate food diversity in WFMs in peripheral wards of Dar es Salaam. These markets comprise of a diverse vendor base and operate during convenient hours. Despite constraints in sanitation, waste management, and formal infrastructure, WFMs remain accessible due to their locations along major roads, facilitating access from residential and workplace areas. They also serve as key sources of nutritious foods at prices perceived as affordable, with informal pricing practices supporting low-income households. These findings demonstrate that WFMs function as primary food access points in underserved urban peripheries, while their temporary and informally governed status limits infrastructure investment and integration into formal planning frameworks. Policy efforts should prioritize integrating WFMs into urban planning and strengthening basic market infrastructure.
A Stochastic Model of East Coast Fever Incorporating a Wildlife–Livestock Interface
(MDPI, 2026-06-09) Chinyoka Mirirai; Muchatibaya Gift; Helikumi Mlyashimbi; Mushayabasa Steady; Jambwa Prosper; Mhlanga Adquate
East Coast Fever (ECF) causes approximately one million livestock deaths annually in sub-Saharan Africa, posing a significant threat to livestock. The wildlife–livestock interface complicates disease management, as wildlife serve as reservoirs. This study developed a Continuous Time Markov Chain (CTMC) model incorporating the wildlife–livestock interface to analyze ECF dynamics. Using the Galton–Watson approximation, we assessed the probability of disease extinction following the introduction of infected hosts or vectors. The probability of disease extinction calculated from the branching process is shown to be in good agreement with the probability approximated from numerical simulations. The disease dynamics of the deterministic model and the CTMC model are compared to ascertain the effect of demographic stochasticity on ECF dynamics. Differences in model predictions and asymptotic dynamics between stochastic and deterministic models were evident. The deterministic and stochastic formulations should therefore be viewed as complementary modeling frameworks, with the deterministic model characterizing average epidemic dynamics and the CTMC model capturing the probabilistic variability and extinction behavior inherent in real transmission processes. These differences are crucial for intervention strategies earmarked to prevent outbreaks. Our analysis revealed a high probability of ECF extinction if the disease emerges from recovered carrier cattle. Finite time to ECF disease extinction is estimated using 10, 000 sample paths, and it is shown that the epidemic duration is shortest if the disease is introduced by infectious cattle. The epidemic duration is longest when the disease is introduced by infectious ticks. Additionally, we observed that host interactions at the wildlife–livestock interface play a critical role in shaping ECF transmission and informing control strategies.
Phytochemical Profiling, Fatty Acids Composition and Antioxidant Potential of Oyster Nut (Telfairia Pedata) Oil.
(DISCOVER, 2026-04-01) Shayo, Philipina F.; Mbegeze, Mussa B.; Ally, Khamis N.
Oyster nut (Telfairia pedata (Sims) Hook) is a nutrient-dense nut widely consumed in East Africa, particularly among lactating mothers, due to its reported lactogenic properties. Its nutritional and phytochemical composition is influenced by ecological conditions, which may affect its ethnopharmacological potential. This study evaluated the phytochemical profile, fatty acid composition, and antioxidant activity of Oyster nut oil obtained from Njombe, Tanzania. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was employed to identify bioactive compounds, while fatty acid composition was determined using Fourier-transform near-infrared spectroscopy (FT-NIR). Antioxidant activity was assessed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and hydrogen peroxide scavenging assays. GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of seven compounds: 1-isopropylidene-4- methylcyclohexane, oct-5-en-2-yn-4-ol, 3,7,11,15-Tetramethyl-hexadeca-2,6,10,14- tetraen-1-ol, 4-Allyl-2,6-dimethoxy-phenol, 4-Hydroxy-3,5-dimethoxy-benzaldehyde, elemicin and squalene. Among these, only squalene has previously been reported in Oyster nut; the remaining are reported here for the first time. The oil was composed of a high proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (54.7%) while the saturated fatty acids constituted (45.3%). This overall fatty acid composition of the oil was dominated by linoleic acid (45.6%), followed by palmitic acid (32.4%), stearic acid (13.2%), oleic acid (8.5%), and linolenic acid (0.3%). Antioxidant assays demonstrated concentration- dependent activity, with the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values of 12.99 µg/mL (DPPH) and 99.40 µg/mL (H₂O₂), higher than that of ascorbic acid (11.39 µg/mL). These findings highlight the potential of Oyster nut oil as a functional food with promising health-promoting properties.
Taxonomic and functional variation of carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) diversity in pioneer black pine and secondary broad-leaved Karst forests
(Elsevier B.V, 2026-05-05) Giovanni Bacaro; Federica Fonda; Miris Castello; Fredrick Ojija; Valentina Olmo; Gaia Foltran; Simona Maccherin; Emilia Pafumi; Giorgio Colombetta; Pietro Brandmayr
Carabid beetles are widely used as bioindicators because they respond rapidly to changes in near-ground microclimate, litter and understory structure, and habitat continuity. In the Classical Karst of the North Adriatic region, forest management is shaped by two concurrent trajectories: the aging of Pinus nigra stands established during late 19th-century afforestation and the recovery of secondary thermophilous broad-leaved forests. Pine plantations, although now old and prone to biotic and abiotic disturbances, have played an important role in shaping present forest ecosystems, and their future is currently debated. To evaluate the effectiveness of pioneer pine plantations in reconstructing forest conditions, we assessed differences in carabid species composition and functional structure between the two forest types using long-term pitfall-trap data collected across multiple sites and years. We quantified taxonomic diversity through richness-based comparisons, rarefaction and additive partitioning, and examined compositional turnover using β-diversity contribution metrics and ordination with permutation-based testing. Functional structure was evaluated using distance-based functional diversity indices, functional rarefaction based on expected Rao’s Q and decomposition of functional α-β-γ components, and a ternary framework separating dominance, functional diversity and redundancy. Finally, we used indicatororiented analyses (species-level and trait-informed) to identify taxa associated with each forest type. Overall, broad-leaved and pine stands showed limited divergence in mean richness and in conventional functional indices, whereas clearer differences emerged in turnover, site uniqueness and diagnostic species subsets. Functional rarefaction indicated that expected functional diversity may differ even when aggregate indices appear similar. Overall, results support the contribution of black pine stands to the maintenance of forest grounddwelling biodiversity and functional structure in karst forests and suggest that conversion strategies should prioritise continuity of microhabitat conditions and microclimatic buffering rather than assuming that replacement by broad-leaved stands will automatically increase biodiversity
Photochromic and fluorescence switching behavior of triazole-functionalized fulgimides: Experimental and theoretical study
(Journal of Luminescence, 2026-05-11) Khamis Nassor Ally; Melkizedeck Hiiti Tsere; Said Ali Vuai; Azaria Stephano Lameck; Leyla Oztürk; Mahmut Kos
Integrating photochromism and fluorescence switching within a single molecular platform remains a central challenge in the development of light-regulated functional materials. Here, we report a structure-encoded design strategy based on the direct covalent incorporation of a 1,2,4-triazole unit into the imide framework of fulgimides, yielding three new photoresponsive molecules (4E–6E). Experimentally, all compounds exhibit photochromism based on the interconversion between open and closed forms. This is accompanied by large visiblerange spectral contrast and reversible fluorescence ON/OFF switching under alternating UV and visible light. The open-ring forms are strongly emissive, while photoinduced cyclization produces systematic fluorescence quenching (20–40%) governed by intramolecular energy transfer to the conjugated closed-ring core. Density functional and time-dependent DFT calculations quantitatively reproduce the observed experimental absorption behavior and reveal pronounced π-delocalization and HOMO-LUMO gap narrowing upon ring closure, establishing clear structure–property relationships. Among the series, compound 6E shows the most favorable electronic and optical characteristics. These results identify triazole-imide coupling as a generalizable molecular engineering route for multifunctional organic photo-switches and advance their potential for optical memory, sensing, and adaptive photonic applications.
Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices on Pesticide use among Cucumber and Watermelon Farmers in selected Districts of the Coast Region, Tanzania
(MJRD, 2026-05-21) Kilemile, Warren Henry; Ngungulu, Alex Wenaty; Chove, Bernard E.
Pesticides are indispensable for enhancing agricultural productivity and widely used by farmers to control pests and diseases, with increasing application documented in various studies worldwide. However, mismanagement and misuse pose serious health and environmental risks. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of cucumber and watermelon farmers in selected districts of the Coast Region, Tanzania. Pwani is a key supplier to major marketplaces in the Dar es Salaam region and to foreign markets, particularly Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 169 cucurbits farmers from seven Wards across three administrative Districts of the Pwani Region. Participants were recruited using a snowball sampling technique. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire administered in Kiswahili. Both SPSS and STATA computer software were used for data analysis and visualisation. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise farmers’ socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge on pesticide use, pests and diseases, safety practices, and attitudes toward pesticide-related health and environmental impacts. The respondents comprised of 89.3% male farmers who farmed cucurbits. The mean age of respondents was 40 years, indicating that the majority fall within the economically active, productive working-age population, as defined by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The education level was generally low, with two-thirds (68.6%) having completed only primary education. Low education was found to be a major factor that affected farmers’ ability to read pesticide labels, understand safety instructions, and apply pesticides correctly, which can contribute to unsafe use and exposure. Only 53.9% of farmers followed label instructions, yet 78.1% read them. Most disposed of empty pesticide containers unsafely by throwing them away (94.7%), while 4.7% used them for fetching drinking water. Pesticide use was high, with 52.7% of farmers spraying weekly and 31.9% twice per week throughout the growth period. It was established that 39.6% harvested between 0-7 days and 57.9% within 8-15 days after spraying. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was inadequate, indicating a high risk of occupational exposure. The attitude towards pesticide use among farmers was reasonably positive (56.21%). Pesticide use among cucurbit farmers was both extensive and frequent. Safety measures, label compliance, container disposal, pre-harvest intervals, and PPE use still need improvement. Safer and more sustainable pesticide management requires better extension support, regulatory oversight, and farmer training.
Taxonomic and functional variation of carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) diversity in pioneer black pine and secondary broad-leaved Karst forests
(Elsevier, 2026-04-24) Bacaro G., Fonda F., Castello M., Ojija F.
Carabid beetles are widely used as bioindicators because they respond rapidly to changes in near-ground microclimate, litter and understory structure, and habitat continuity. In the Classical Karst of the North Adriatic region, forest management is shaped by two concurrent trajectories: the aging of Pinus nigra stands established during late 19th-century afforestation and the recovery of secondary thermophilous broad-leaved forests. Pine plantations, although now old and prone to biotic and abiotic disturbances, have played an important role in shaping present forest ecosystems, and their future is currently debated. To evaluate the effectiveness of pioneer pine plantations in reconstructing forest conditions, we assessed differences in carabid species composition and functional structure between the two forest types using long-term pitfall-trap data collected across multiple sites and years. We quantified taxonomic diversity through richness-based comparisons, rarefaction and additive partitioning, and examined compositional turnover using β-diversity contribution metrics and ordination with permutation-based testing. Functional structure was evaluated using distance-based functional diversity indices, functional rarefaction based on expected Rao’s Q and decomposition of functional α-β-γ components, and a ternary framework separating dominance, functional diversity and redundancy. Finally, we used indicator- oriented analyses (species-level and trait-informed) to identify taxa associated with each forest type. Overall, broad-leaved and pine stands showed limited divergence in mean richness and in conventional functional indices, whereas clearer differences emerged in turnover, site uniqueness and diagnostic species subsets. Functional rarefaction indicated that expected functional diversity may differ even when aggregate indices appear similar. Overall, results support the contribution of black pine stands to the maintenance of forest ground- dwelling biodiversity and functional structure in karst forests and suggest that conversion strategies should prioritise continuity of microhabitat conditions and microclimatic buffering rather than assuming that replace- ment by broad-leaved stands will automatically increase biodiversity.
Public Perception of Climate Risk and Adaptation in Tanzania: a Systematic Review
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023-12-30) Nyinondi, P.S; Sospeter, M.E.
Climate change is a pressing global challenge of the 21st century, with impacts including global warming, drought, famine, floods, tropical storms, and cyclones. One of the biggest challenges to mitigating climate change is people's perception of its risks. This study provides valuable insights on the public perception of climate risk and adaptation in Tanzania through a systematic review of peer-reviewed papers. The search was conducted using keywords related to climate change awareness, knowledge, perception, attitude, and risk adaptation from the Sokoine University of Agriculture Institutional repository (SUAIR) for publications between 2010 and 2022, 48 peer reviewed articles were reviewed. The review found that there is a high level of awareness (87.5%) of climate change, with many (77%) recognizing its impacts on their daily lives in terms of economic activities and gender roles. However, the perception of climate risk varies depending on factors such as gender, location, and socioeconomic status. For example, people living in rural areas perceived climate risks such as floods and drought more than those in urban areas did. Attitudes towards climate change adaptation also vary among different groups, with some people such as farmers more resilient and willing to adapt than pastoralists, people living in urban areas than people living in rural areas. The review identifies knowledge gaps in understanding the causes and impacts of climate change. Overall, this systematic review provides a comprehensive picture of current knowledge and understanding of the public perception of risk adaptation in Tanzania, highlighting areas for further research and policy action.
Land-use/land-cover change in the Ngerengere River Catchment, Tanzania: Insights from 2004 to 2034
(ACCSCIENCE PUBLISHING, 2025-07-21) Nkinda, Rose; Ojija, Fredrick,; Bacaro,Giovanni; Malunguja, Gisandu
Land use and land cover (LULC) surrounding the Ngerengere River, Tanzania, which is a crucial water source, has led to a rapid decline in vegetated areas. Understanding these changes is vital for informed decision- making and sustainable river catchment management. This study assessed historical LULC trends from 2004 to 2024, projected the current trend of change to 2034, and analyzed the human activities driving the trends using Landsat TM imagery. The study utilized both spatial and non-spatial datasets from primary sources (Landsat imagery via Google Earth Engine and field surveys) and secondary sources (literature and government reports). Landsat 5 (2004) and Landsat 8 (2014, 2024) images were processed using Arc-GIS and QGIS to minimize cloud interference. Land cover classification combined unsupervised and supervised methods, validated with ground reference points collected through GPS. A rule-based classification system used spectral indices to identify land cover types. Classified maps were visualized and exported for further analysis. Furthermore, systematic field visits were conducted along the catchment to assess human land use activities, that is, agriculture, settlements, and deforestation. Results revealed a 17.6% decline in sparse vegetation between 2004 and 2014, and a further 27.01% decrease from 2014 to 2024. Bare land increased by 8.58% over the two decades. Built-up areas rose from 0.67% in 2004 to 5.44% in 2014, then dropped to 2.1% in 2024. In contrast, dense vegetation increased from 0.04% in 2004 to 7.13% in 2024. Overall, the land cover projection for 2034 indicates continued ecological transformation within the Ngerengere River catchment. These shifts, primarily driven by agricultural expansion and deforestation, underscore the urgent need for sustainable land management. The significant vegetation cover decline in the catchment is largely due to agricultural encroachment into forested areas.
Development of Internet of Things-Based System for Monitoring and Controlling the Water Quality in Small-Scale Aquaculture.
(MUST Journal of Research and Development (MJRD), 2022-12-28) Nyoni, Abbas; Minga, Lusajo; Kusyama, Sadiki Lameck
Water quality is an essential factor for any successful aquaculture project. For high productivity from aquaculture, critical water quality parameters such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, salinity, and turbidity must be kept in the optimum range. Temperature is the second-most critical water quality parameter after dissolved oxygen. Tropical fish prefer temperatures ranging from 250c to 320c. This study designed and implemented a system prototype for monitoring and controlling water temperature in an aquaculture environment based on the Internet of Things (IoT). The system comprises temperature sensors, a NodeMCU Esp8266 Microcontroller, a 2-channel relay switch, a liquid-crystal display, a cooling fan, a water heater, and a mobile application. The temperature sensor immersed in a fish pond collects the pond's temperature. The collected temperature data from fish ponds is sent to the microcontroller, a NodeMCU Esp8266, for processing and transmission to the cloud server. The Blynk Cloud IoT platform was used for data visualisation and controlling actuators. The system users could access data through the Blynk Mobile application installed on a smartphone. The system automatically switches ON the cooling fan to cool the water when the temperature is above 32oc and switches ON the water heater when the temperature is below 25oc. The system was tested both in the laboratory and in field to evaluate the system's performance in detecting pond temperature and data dissemination to the users. This study's findings have proved the system's capability in data acquisition with accuracy and efficiency. In addition, the results have shown that the system can effectively control pond temperature.
What Happens After Conservation and Management Donors Leave? A Before and After Study of Coral Reef Ecology and Stakeholder Perceptions of Management Benefits
(CrossMark, 2015-10-15) McClanahan, Timothy R.; Muthiga, Nyawira A.; Abunge, Caroline.; Kamukuru, Albogast T.; Mwakalapa, Eliezer.; Kalombo, Hassan
The coral reefs of Tanga, Tanzania were recognized as a national conservation priority in the early 1970s, but the lack of a management response led to damage by dynamite, beach seines, and high numbers of fishers until the mid 1990s. Subsequently, an Irish Aid funded IUCN Eastern Africa program operated from 1994 to mid 2007 to implement increased management aimed at reducing these impacts. The main effects of this management were to establish collaborative management areas, reduce dynamite and seine net fishing, and establish small community fisheries closures beginning in 1996. The ecology of the coral reefs was studied just prior to the initiation of this management in 1996, during, 2004, and a few years after the project ended in 2010. The perceptions of resource users towards management options were evaluated in 2010. The ecological studies indicated that the biomass of fish rose continuously during this period from 260 to 770 kg/ha but the small closures were no different from the non-closure areas. The benthic community studies indicate stability in the coral cover and community composition and an increase in coralline algae and topographic complexity over time. The lack of change in the coral community suggests resilience to various disturbances including fisheries management and the warm temperature anomaly of 1998. These results indicate that some aspects of the management program had been ecologically successful even after the donor program ended. Moreover, the increased compliance with seine net use and dynamite restrictions were the most likely factors causing this increase in fish biomass and not the closures. Resource users interviewed in 2010 were supportive of gear restrictions but there was considerable between-community disagreement over the value of specific restrictions. The social-ecological results suggest that increased compliance with gear restrictions is largely responsible for the improvements in reef ecology and is a high priority for future management programs
Aflatoxin production mechanisms and management in the maize cropping systems of sub-Saharan Africa
(CAB International, 2025-09-11) Kwigizile, Owekisha H.; Mng’ong’o ,Marco E.; Mushongi , Arnold; Mbega Ernest; Mashamba,Philipo
In sub-Saharan African countries, the maize crop is a major staple food crop, providing up to 70% of the population’s total caloric intake. Aflatoxins, toxic secondary metabolites primarily produced by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, pose significant threats to food safety, public health, and agricultural economies in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where maize is a staple crop. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the mechanisms of aflatoxin production and its management within maize cropping systems of SSA. The occurrence and severity of aflatoxin contamination are influenced by multiple factors, including high temperatures, drought stress, insect damage, poor post-harvest handling, and inadequate storage conditions. Maize has been linked to being contaminated by roughly eighteen (18) different forms of aflatoxins, which are severely poisonous, and contribute to public health issues. The review explores the biological and environmental triggers of aflatoxin biosynthesis, highlighting molecular pathways and fungal-host interactions. Additionally, it evaluates integrated management strategies encompassing host resistance, good agricultural practices, biocontrol agents (such as Aflasafe), proper harvesting, drying, and storage techniques. Socio-economic and institutional barriers to effective aflatoxin control are also discussed, along with policy and research recommendations. The review also emphasizes on the necessity to apply novel and existing techniques to prevent aflatoxin. The study featured the need for a multidisciplinary and region-specific approach to sustainably mitigate aflatoxin risks in SSA. Best bet recommendations are provided given different levels of scenarios at the farmer, farm plot, maize farming systems, and eventually the nodes across the entire maize value chain.
Market Performance of Avocado Fruits among Smallholder Farmers in Southern Highlands of Tanzania
(Scientific Research Publishing Inc., 2025-02-28) Mlengera, Ndabhemeye.; Katunzi, Adolph.; Marijani, Issaya.; Nzilano, Billes.; Mng’ong’o, Marco.; Mvile, Baraka.
This study was designed to determine factors that influence market performance of avocado fruits among smallholder farmers in Mbeya and Songwe regions. A cross section research design entailing 209 farmers from five (5) districts of two (2) regions and 15 key informants; 5 local service providers (LSP), 5 traders/brokers and 5 district extension officers (DEO) were involved in the study. Random selection procedures were used to select avocado producers and purposive selection procedures were used to select key informants. The study employed survey questionnaires to collect data from avocado farmers and structured interview to collect data from key informants. Collected data were analyzed with an aid of descriptive statistics and linear regression model was used to determine significant factors that determine market prices of avocado fruits among smallholder farmers. The demographic characteristics of avocado farmers showed that; 61.2% of farmers had age between 36 to 59 years old, 84.7% were married, 74.6% had primary education level, average number of 5 members of the family, average 4.3 acres of owned land and 1.8 acres planted with avocado. Moreover, findings showed that 90.9% grew improved avocado varieties. Farm gate (88.5%) was the major market outlet chosen by avocado farmers. Local merchants and processors were the major buyers of the produced avocado. Results from linear regression analysis showed that variety grown (P < 0.05), location (P < 0.05), farm size (P < 0.05) and farmers experience (P < 0.05) were factors that statistically influenced market prices for avocado fruits. The study concluded that despite the remarkable contributions to livelihood of the farmers yet, it is highly fragile on market prices. Therefore, the study recommends the need to establish market systems that will govern avocado fruits marketing for sustainability of the sub-sector.
Assessment of Heavy Metals in Wild and Farmed Tilapia (Oreochromis Niloticus) on Lake Kariba, Zambia: Implications for Human and Fish Health
(Taylor & Francis Group, 2021-08-20) Simukoko, Chalumba Kachusi.; Mwakalapa, Eliezer Brown.; Bwalya, Patricia.; Muzandu, Kaampwe.; Berg, Vidar.; Mutoloki, Stephen.; Polder, Anuschka.; Lyche, Jan Ludvig
The aim of this study was to assess the levels of heavy metals in both wild and farmed tilapia on Lake Kariba in Zambia and to evaluate the impact of intensive fish farming on wild tilapia. Three sites for wild fish (2 distant and 1 proximal to fish farms) and two fish farms were selected. One hundred fish (52 from distant sites; 20 near fish farms; 28 farmed fish) were sampled and muscle tissues excised for analysis of heavy metals (Mg, Fe, Zn, Al, Cu, Se, Co, Mo, As, Cr, V, Ni, Hg, Pb, Li, Cd, and Ag) by acid (HNO3) digestion and ICP-MS. All metals were found to be below the maximum limits (MLs) set by WHO/EU. Essential metals were higher in farmed tilapia, whereas non-essential metals were higher in wild tilapia. Significantly higher levels of essential metals were found in wild fish near the fish farms than those distant from the farms. Estimated weekly intake (EWI) for all metals were less than the provisional tolerable weekly intakes (PTWI). Target hazard quotients (THQ) and Hazard Indices (HI)<1 were indicating no health risks from a lifetime of fish consumption. Selenium Health Benefit Value (HBVSe) was positive for all locations, indicating protective effects of selenium against mercury in fish. Total cancer risk (CR) due to As, Cr, Cd, Ni and Pb was less than 1 × 10−4, indicating less than 1 in 10,000 carcinogenic risk from a lifetime consumption of tilapia from Lake Kariba. Hg levels (0.021 mg/kg) in wild tilapia at site 1 were higher than the Environmental quality standard (EQS = 0.020 mg/kg) set by EU, indicating possible risk of adverse effects to fish. Except for Hg, levels of metals in fish were safe for human consumption and had no adverse effects on fish

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